The Ecuadorian authorities captured this Thursday Francisco Manuel Bermúdez Cagua, alias “Churrón”, identified as one of the main leaders of the criminal organization Los Choneros and wanted by the United States justice system for alleged crimes related to drug trafficking and arms trafficking.

The arrest was carried out during a joint operation carried out by the Armed Forces and the National Police in the La Alborada sector, in the north of Guayaquil. Two men identified by the authorities as members of his security circle were also arrested in the intervention.

The Minister of Defense, Gian Carlo Loffredo, confirmed the capture and assured that alias “Churrón” was considered a high-value target. In addition, he reported that he was subject to a red notice from Interpol and an extradition request from the United States.

The US Government offered a reward of up to five million dollars for information leading to his capture or conviction, within the State Department's Narcotics Rewards Program.

According to the accusations presented by the US justice system, Bermúdez Cagua would have coordinated cocaine trafficking operations from Ecuador to Central America, Mexico and the United States, in addition to participating in activities related to the use and trafficking of weapons.

Ecuadorian authorities maintain that, after the capture and subsequent extradition of José Adolfo Macías, alias “Fito”, to the United States, “Churrón” assumed a leadership role within Los Choneros, becoming one of the main targets of the security forces.

According to official information, Bermúdez Cagua had a close relationship with alias “Fito” for years and was considered one of his most trusted men. His criminal history includes a record of murder and links to criminal structures that operated in the province of Manabí before joining Los Choneros.